Northern San Juan
AvalancheJason Bushey · Dec 3, 2018 · Northern San Juan
Weather
Snow most day, calm winds 10mph. 3-4cm new snow throughout the day, most on Red Mountain
Snowpack
Observed HS of 95-110 on N aspects near and below treeline with typically 30cm of facets on the base. Most reaction occurring on this layer, and new snow layers seem to be consolidating in the upper pack. Significant whoomphing and collapsing on this aspect observed. Received a crack on a 34 degree slope (from 28), but did not have the energy to release. HS of W facing more towards 70cm with variable spots plus or minus 20cm, but 15cm of facets on the base in most areas above 11,000'. Below 11K, HS is closer to 40cm with no facets. Received a prominent settlement on NW facing slope at 11,700' triggered from 28 degrees with cracking up to slope of likely 34 degrees, but no avalanche occurred. his was triggered from an area near trees that had a HS of 90cm. West facing has a more consolidated snowpack on the top than north, but boot penetration is typically to the ground, but more stubborn to get there.
Avalanche
Noticed a small D1 R1 avalanche on SW facing on Red 3, that occurred near rock formations in thin snow.